Han Kang Wins 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature

The 2024 Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded to South Korean author Han Kang for her 'intense poetic prose that confronts historical traumas and exposes the fragility of human life.' Born in 1970 in Gwangju, Han's literary career began in 1993, and she gained international recognition with her novel 'The Vegetarian' in 2015, which explores the violent repercussions of a woman's decision to stop eating meat. The Nobel Committee praised her unique awareness of the connections between body and soul, as well as her innovative and experimental writing style. Han becomes the first Asian woman and the second South Korean to win the Nobel Literature Prize, reflecting the increasing global influence of South Korean culture. The award highlights the ongoing challenge of gender representation in the Nobel literature prize, which has historically favored male authors. Han's win continues to elevate her status among contemporary literary figures, resonating with themes of human vulnerability and existential questioning.